Manisha Snoyer sits down with education innovator Jade Rivera to explore the ins and outs of strength-based education and homeschooling. With a particular focus on children with special needs, Jade provides invaluable insights into identifying learning disabilities, promoting healthy emotional development, and the dynamics of micro-schools. The conversation delves deep into hot topics, including the misunderstood realities of diagnoses like ADHD and autism. Jade also highlights the flexibility that homeschooling can provide, particularly for children who don't fit the conventional education mold. Manisha adds her own invaluable perspectives, revealing her experiences with imposter syndrome and offering advice for families navigating the often confusing world of educational options. Together, they examine the latest research and debunk common myths, providing listeners with a well-rounded, thought-provoking understanding of what education can—and should—look like for each individual child.

Jade Rivera is an educational innovator with nearly 15 years of experience in designing and leading micro-schools in Oakland, CA, specializing in neurodivergent and twice-exceptional children. Armed with a Montessori credential and training in nonviolent communication, her pedagogical approach encompasses strength-based pedagogy, project-based learning, and gradeless classrooms. Jade has been honored by the California Association for the Gifted and recognized as a "person to watch" in the 2e movement by 2e News. She recently earned her Ed.D. from Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity, where she continues as a professor and has been named the director of the Strength Based Assessment Lab. Author of multiple publications, her latest book is "Could You Live Underwater: A Design Thinking and STEM Curriculum," with Do More of What Makes You Awesome: Micro-Schools for Twice-Exceptional Children forthcoming.

Manisha Snoyer sits down with renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Gordon Neufeld to dissect the complexities of parenting in today's world. They delve into the challenges and nuances of modern parenting, discussing everything from the rise of peer-oriented culture to the role of emotional connections in a child's upbringing. Dr. Neufeld critically examines the prevailing norms around social skills and emotional teaching, arguing for a more intuitive, connection-based approach. His insights on parental power—rooted not in manipulation but in genuine emotional bonds—offer a fresh perspective. With discussions on everything from conflict and emotional maturity to the importance of nurturing natural developmental processes, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for parents, educators, and anyone interested in child psychology.

Dr. Gordon Neufeld is an eminent clinical psychologist and authority on child development, revered for over four decades of groundbreaking work. He holds graduate degrees from the University of B.C., earning distinguished awards like the Governor General’s Medal and the BC Psychologists Award. A best-selling author, Dr. Neufeld penned the seminal book "Hold On to Your Kids," translated into over 15 languages. His expertise extends to forensic psychology, focusing on violent young offenders. An innovator in parent consulting, he founded the Neufeld Institute, a global educational platform offering courses in seven languages. Known for his contributions to attachment-based developmental approaches, Dr. Neufeld has spoken worldwide, from the United Nations to the European Parliament, delivering insights into parenting, aggression, and child development. A father of five and a grandfather of seven, his life’s mission is to empower adults to create conditions where children can flourish.

In the second installment of this series, Manisha Snoyer reconvenes with tech and education leaders to delve deeper into the future of homeschooling. Recorded on Naval Ravikant's AirChat, the episode goes beyond the basics to explore the multifaceted nature of education and its evolving trajectory. Throughout the episode, the panelists discuss topics ranging from self-confidence and the role of education in childhood development to the polarizing perspectives on homeschooling. Manisha and her guests also examine the influence of inner child healing, societal expectations, and the significance of self-led learning. The conversation culminates in an intriguing discussion on the future trends of K -12 education, including the potential for modular and decentralized educational systems. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the educational paradigms that are challenging the status quo, and if you haven't already tuned into the first episode, you can find it here.

Manisha Snoyer has assembled an extraordinary panel of homeschool parents, teachers, and entrepreneurs. The lineup includes Naval Ravikant, visionary entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher; Nir Eyal, an internationally renowned expert in behavioral design and author of the seminal books "Hooked and" "Indistractable"; Rachel Thomas, Ph.D., named one of the top 20 women in AI in the world and co-founder of fast.ai; Alycia Wright, former public school teacher and leader of the rapidly expanding Cultural Roots Homeschool Co-op in Richmond, Virginia serving Black, Brown, and Indigenous families; Shiren Rattigan, the pioneering founder of Colossal Academy, microschool network, and advocate for equitable school choice; Kerry McDonald, FEE scholar and host of the LiberatedED podcast; and Lisa Betts-LaCroix, founder of the Bay Area Gifted Homeschoolers Group, the first and largest group for parents of gifted homeschoolers in the Bay area.

A groundbreaking asynchronous conversation across four continents and five time zones with seven titans of tech and education. Recorded on Naval Ravikant's new social media platform, Airchat, this episode features an all-star panel of homeschool parents, technologists, and entrepreneurs, including Naval himself, best-selling author Nir Eyal, fast.ai co-founder Rachel Thomas, and more. The panelists dive deep into the promise and challenges of decentralized education, addressing concerns like socialization, elitism, and media addiction. Moreover, they explore the transformative role of technology in education, the role of tutors in modern homeschooling, the skills kids need for a rapidly evolving world, and whether parents are qualified to teach their kids…. Want to join the conversation? Head over to the homeschooling room on Airchat. Despite their considerable accomplishments, the panelists convey how personalized education is a viable choice for any family who wants their child to thrive in a rapidly changing world. From debunking myths to discussing the purpose of education, this episode delivers a nuanced, global perspective that promises to enrich your take on homeschooling.

Manisha Snoyer has assembled an extraordinary panel of homeschool parents, teachers, and entrepreneurs. The lineup includes Naval Ravikant, visionary entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher; Nir Eyal, an internationally renowned expert in behavioral design and author of the seminal books "Hooked and" "Indistractable"; Rachel Thomas, Ph.D., named one of the top 20 women in AI in the world and co-founder of fast.ai; Alycia Wright, former public school teacher and leader of the rapidly expanding Cultural Roots Homeschool Co-op in Richmond, Virginia serving Black, Brown, and Indigenous families; Shiren Rattigan, the pioneering founder of Colossal Academy, microschool network, and advocate for equitable school choice; Kerry McDonald, FEE scholar and host of the LiberatedED podcast; and Lisa Betts-LaCroix, founder of the Bay Area Gifted Homeschoolers Group, the first and largest group for parents of gifted homeschoolers in the Bay area.

Manisha Snoyer sits down with Jeremy Howard, a visionary in the realm of modular and curated education. Together, they explore the transformative power of technology and personalization in the educational landscape. Howard shares poignant stories of his daughter’s educational journey, ranging from the traditional classroom environment to adaptive learning apps and homeschooling during the pandemic. He critiques the 'one-size-fits-all' approach of conventional schooling systems and passionately advocates for a more tailored, child-centric model. The episode explores a plethora of ed-tech tools, strategies, and philosophies like 'modular learning,' 'adaptive apps,' and even the controversial subject of screen time in kids. Howard’s own experiences serve as compelling case studies to demystify modern educational practices, making this episode a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone invested in the future of education.

Jeremy Howard is a multi-faceted luminary in the realms of data science and deep learning, boasting a career that spans academia, entrepreneurship, and activism. As the co-founder of fast.ai and an honorary professor at the University of Queensland, Jeremy is invested in democratizing deep learning and making it more accessible. But it's not just the world of AI that captivates him; he's a vocal advocate for reimagining education systems. Jeremy's rich background, including his tenure as a Distinguished Research Scientist at the University of San Francisco, lends weight to his insights into modular learning and homeschooling. He believes that the key to effective education lies in curated, age-appropriate, and technologically-assisted learning—an ethos that marries perfectly with his lifelong commitment to accessible, quality education.

Manisha Snoyer delves into the complex world of gifted and profoundly gifted children with Megan Cannella, Director of Outreach at the Davidson Institute. This episode explores not just what makes these children unique but also the everyday challenges they and their families face. Megan provides deep insights into the brain-based differences that set gifted children apart and shares innovative strategies for nurturing their unique needs. The conversation also addresses the critical importance of a whole family approach and acknowledges the additional challenges of profoundly gifted children. Whether you're a parent, an educator, or simply curious about the nature of giftedness, this episode is an in-depth exploration of understanding and supporting these exceptional minds.

Megan Cannella serves as the Director of Outreach at the Davidson Institute, a nonprofit committed to serving the gifted and twice-exceptional community. A luminary in the field of gifted education, Megan has dedicated her career to helping parents and educators understand the unique needs and challenges of these extraordinary children. With a focus on brain-based research and whole-family approaches, she provides practical solutions that enable gifted kids to thrive emotionally, intellectually, and socially. Megan's work is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to support and nourish the gifted mind.

Manisha Snoyer engages in a deep dive with Anya Kamenetz, an acclaimed education reporter for NPR and author of seminal books on education. They navigate a rich tapestry of topics, from the often polarizing issue of screen time for children to the significance of climate anxiety in today's world. Anya dispels myths around standardized tests, eloquently elucidating why they are far from the be-all and end-all of evaluating student capabilities. The conversation also ventures into the realm of community involvement, digital divides, and the imperative of local actions. Listeners will come away not only enlightened but empowered, armed with actionable insights to navigate the intricate landscape of modern education and parenting.

Anya Kamenetz (@anya1anya) is a leading voice in the world of education, serving as an NPR reporter and advisor to esteemed organizations like the Aspen Institute and Climate Mental Health Network. Author of influential books such as "The Art of Screen Time," Anya's work transcends traditional classroom boundaries, delving into the digital landscape and its effect on children's development. In this episode, she also speaks passionately about community involvement in homeschooling, as well as the moral dimensions of educational choices. An advocate for inclusive and dynamic education, Anya brings a wealth of expertise to the topic of homeschooling and beyond.

Manisha Snoyer sits down with Noah Apple Mayers, the visionary founder of Brooklyn Apple Academy—a progressive homeschool co-op based in New York. The academy diverges from traditional education systems, offering an environment that fosters creativity, real-world experiences, and democratic decision-making. From a flexible seven-day programming schedule to weekend activities that defy convention, Brooklyn Apple Academy is revolutionizing the education landscape. The discussion delves into critical topics like the year-round enrollment cycle, various community events, and the academy's approach to developing well-rounded individuals. Noah also shares intriguing insights about his latest class for teens, which explores New York City infrastructure in collaboration with elected officials and city planners. Whether you're a parent contemplating alternative education or a student seeking a more engaging learning experience, this episode is a treasure trove of educational innovation.

Noah Mayers is the founder and lead teacher at Brooklyn Apple Academy. With over two decades of experience in the educational realm, Noah has taught at prestigious institutions like Eugene Lang College/New School University and Brooklyn Free School. Passionate about revolutionizing education in New York City's dynamic setting, his pedagogical approach is hands-on, project-oriented, and arts-centric. This approach offers families a holistic, less bureaucratic, and more creative learning experience. Inspired by his own alternative educational journey, Noah is committed to creating the kind of school he wishes he could have attended—one that fosters self-motivated, lifelong learners through individualized, active learning. His work is a living testament to his dedication to educational innovation.

Please Check out Jasmine's Breakthrough Junior Challenge Video!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xHrWlxOkVo

Manisha Snoyer interviews Jasmine, a 15-year-old certified Python engineer, trampoline champion, and science enthusiast. A finalist in the Breakthrough Junior Challenge, Jasmine delves into the intricacies of quantum navigation, her research processes, and her passion for educating others. Homeschooled and highly independent, Jasmine talks about her educational journey, highlighting the effectiveness of personalized learning and family involvement. This episode also reveals how her homeschooling experiences are integrated with her cutting-edge scientific pursuits. From discussing the practical applications of her research in combating climate change to sharing her daily routine and her tight-knit relationship with her parents, this episode is a fascinating dive into the life of a teen prodigy.

Jasmine Eyal is a self-motivated homeschooler with a deep passion for exploring the dynamic interaction between humans and technology. Armed with a Data Analytics certification from Google and a Python programming certification, she specializes in assisting companies in uncovering valuable insights through AI and big data analysis. In addition to her professional pursuits and coursework, Jasmine holds the prestigious title of Guinness World Record holder. She dedicates her time to perfecting tricks alongside her coaches and friends at her local freestyle trampoline park. Moreover, she demonstrates her commitment to her community as a devoted volunteer at a center for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Manisha Snoyer sits down with Kerry McDonald, a renowned scholar and advocate for decentralized education. Together, they unpack the complex landscape of public education, school choice, and homeschooling in the United States. The discussion explores groundbreaking notions like universal education choice, while also diving into the thorny issue of regulations that influence educational entrepreneurship. As the conversation shifts, Kerry shares personal anecdotes from her journey in homeschooling her four children, revealing how self-directed learning has transformed her family's educational experience. The episode challenges preconceptions, from the importance of parental empowerment to the rising acceptance of homeschooling in mainstream society. Listen in to learn why parents are the ultimate decision-makers in their children's education and how policy can either hinder or enhance educational innovation.

Kerry McDonald (@Kerry_edu) is a Senior Education Fellow at FEE and the host of the LiberatED podcast. Author of "Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom," she's an adjunct scholar at the Cato Institute, education policy fellow at State Policy Network, and a regular Forbes contributor. With a dedication to innovation and quality in education, McDonald's stands as a respected authority in the field.